“God is never in a hurry.” Recently, I read those words written by Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest. They stopped me in my tracks. I still can’t decide how I feel about this statement. In one sense, I love that God never has to hurry. He is so powerful and sovereign that nothing surprises him. He doesn’t forget about me and my prayers. It’s not like he suddenly recalls that he forgot to bless me and has to hurry. That’s a relief.

On the other hand, sometimes I want him to hurry! Why is he making me wait so long? Doesn’t he hear my prayers? The problem with my impatience is that I’m making it about myself. And it’s never about me. It’s always about God. He wants us to love him and seek a relationship with him because of who he is, not because of what he can give us.

God isn’t in a hurry. His timing is exactly right. He won’t delay for one second longer than necessary, and he’s not in a rush. He is always on time.

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV, emphasis mine)

You will not leave in a hurry, running for your lives. For the LORD will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.
Isaiah 52:12 (NLT)

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV)

Dear Father, when I get impatient and want you to hurry, remind me of your holiness and sovereignty. As I turn over my plans to you, teach me to have faith in your promises and to receive your love and compassion. Amen.